Monday, November 29, 2010

Long Trail - Centennial Red (Imperial Red) 7.9%abv - Bridgewater Corners, VT22oz dark brown bottle. Brewed on date stamped on bottleIt pours a dusky teak amber color with an off-white, fast-fizzling head, along with loads of sticky lace.A brisk breath of resinous hop aroma is released upon opening and after a sturdy pour. Woody malt and horse stable smells follow. Light citrusy and rummy perfume smells linger, then fade.This brew is all about the potent Imperial Red flavors. The resiny hops and sweet malts are on equal footing. White grapefruit-like citrusy tang and a bit of a metallic bite are quite upfront. A thin honey sweetness rides a Triple Sec-like alcoholic fuminess.This is a very good representation of the Imperial Red (although there doesn't appear to be an official style) style.I would enjoy creamy cheeses, a hearty game stew, milk chocolate, ice cream or creme brulee and wild berries with this one.